December 12, 2008

Dear Galilee,

            Glory to God in the Highest!  Christ is alive!  Today! Tomorrow!  Always!  Even unto the end of the world!  Hallelujah!      

            As we prepare to celebrate the birth of Christ we want to take this opportunity to bestow upon each of you the blessings of this holiday season.  The season of Advent challenges us to fulfill John the Baptist's exhortation:  "Prepare the way of the Lord" (Matthew 3:3).  The word "Advent" means coming or arrival.  In its basic meaning, it is a direct reference to the historical coming of Christ in human form.  It also refers to the ascended Lord, who will return at the end of time as we know it to bring about the fullness of God's kingdom.  Advent is the season to watch and wait-expectantly, prayerfully, and joyfully.  It is also a time to make ready for the second coming of Jesus Christ.  Are we ready?

Each year, I embrace every opportunity to share that Christmas is more than just a holiday; it is a Holy day. It is a time when we are most reminded of God's gift to the world of his only son, the Christ child, to raise us up out of our sinful condition into Grace and the saving knowledge of Jesus Christ.   John 3:16 gives us the message of Christmas and the mission of Christ. "For God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life."  What a wonderful blessing it is to know the Christ of Christmas!

In the spirit of the season, please receive this gift of love from the hearts of the membership of Galilee Missionary Baptist Church.  Have a blessed holiday!  We're praying for your health, wealth and strength.  

Merry Christmas,

Pastor Nathan E. Scovens